Located about 20 minutes away from the Quad Cities metropolitan area, Geneseo, Illinois is located conveniently next to Interstate 80. The 6,500 residents have easy access to either the Quad Cities or the Chicago areas, but many of the residents have stated their strong roots to the area keep them from moving. Geneseo is "known for its Victorian style homes and its 'Rockwellian quaintness,'" while some people compare the city to the fictional town on the Andy Griffith Show.

History The Geneseo area was first settled when eight families from Genesee County, New York (just east of Buffalo) moved to Illinois to form a religious community. The families arrived in Illinois in 1836 and 1837. These families had a strong commitment to religion and good education. They also forbade the use of alcohol and strongly opposed slavery, acting as a station on the Underground Railroad helping escaped slaves to relocate to Northern states where slavery was prohibited. The Rock Island Railroad arrived in 1854, running right through town, which greatly improved the economy. Geneseo was incorporated in 1855.

The Hennepin Canal, which connects the Illinois River with the Mississippi River, was constructed just north of town. The canal was completed in 1907 and added another transportation channel serving Geneseo. In 1974 Springfield Armory, Inc., was founded in Geneseo. It has become one of the largest manufacturers of firearms in the U.S. They currently employ 135 people.

Geneseo Community Located in Henry County Geneseo is a very tight knit community full of very welcoming people to any visitors or new residents. Every summer Geneseo offers an incredible farmers market that brings many people in from the surrounding areas making for one of the many fun events Geneseo has to offer.

Attractions and Entertainment Geneseo has many activities to occupy its residents and attract visitors. There is the Annual Music and Craft Festival, as well as the Annual Christmas Walk in December. Geneseo also operates the Geneseo Country Club which has a golf course, clubhouse and pool. Visiting the museums that Geneseo has to offer is a great way to learn about the history of the town. Geneseo also offers a indoor/outdoor pool to keep swimming and water activities open all-year around.

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